Oak trees are probably one of my favorite types of trees. The Chestnut Oak is a lovely member of the white oak group. It’s scientific name is Quercus prinus. There is a cluster of Chestnut Oak trees on my Mom’s farm in The Plains, Virginia. This is a great opportunity to get up-close to some […]
Woods are just so diverse. It is amazing how many different species of trees there are in Virginia and across the United States. I can’t imagine how many species of trees are in the above photo. My ability to identify trees is limited. However, there are many tree identification resources. Read more to find out […]
More natural foliage decimated by another invasive species. There is nothing heavenly about the Tree of Heaven or technically Ailanthus altissima. Earlier this spring, the emergence of the foliage fascinated me. It was so beautiful. At that time, I had not identified the tree. I should have known it is an invasive species. It is […]
Early blooming trees are always welcome after a long winter. The Saucer Magnolia is an early bloomer in Virginia. It produces numerous showy, white flowers with pink and purple accents. This tree is actually a hybrid. In the early 1800s, a Frenchman crossed Magnolia denudate with M. lilliflora and Magnolia x soulangeana was born. Obviously, […]
The Southern magnolia is a magnificent tree. It is an excellent choice to add variety to a landscape. It provides unique visual contrast that can’t be provided by other trees. Read more to find out about this lovely low maintenance tree. Another Native Species! The magnolia family (Magnoliaceae) is part of the most primitive angiosperms […]
Mountain Laurel is native to the Eastern United States. I recently noticed it because it is blooming. We have lots of laurel on our property near Charlottesville. It’s not quite as abundant in Northern Virginia. Look for it next time you are hiking. It stands out in the forest for its unique growth patterns. Find […]